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Only one female scientist named in GCSEs, research finds
Researchers found just 1 woman among 86 scientists named in UK GCSE and National 5 science specifications, and urged broader female representation.
- University of Cambridge researchers have found that female scientists are almost entirely absent from compulsory UK science curricula, with only English chemist Rosalind Franklin featured among 86 scientists named in GCSE specifications.
- Academics note that despite making "several major scientific breakthroughs," women remain excluded from exam material; this historical omission reinforces stereotypes that STEM fields are primarily for men, limiting girls' engagement.
- Examining Key Stage 5 specifications, the study found only 3 of 181 scientists mentioned were women; researchers recommend including pioneers like Marie SkBodowska-Curie and Lise Meitner in future qualifications.
- The Joint Council for Qualifications, representing major boards like AQA and Pearson, acknowledged a "clear need for greater representation in science qualifications" and plans to prioritize this during reforms.
- Government departments in England and Scotland pledged to review the research findings to close the STEM gender gap, with officials stating they will ensure girls see the contributions women have made.
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U.K. exam board science specifications reveal gender gap that may influence girls' STEM choices
An absence of women scientists in U.K. exam board specifications for science could be a factor in the disproportionate number of girls dropping STEM subjects at 16 and contribute to the gender gap in STEM careers, new research from the University of Cambridge has found.
·Douglas, United Kingdom
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Cambridge Study Finds Women Scientists Largely Missing from UK School Science Exam Specifications
Researchers find only one woman among 86 scientists named at GCSE level and recommend targeted changes to help broaden scientific role models. IN BRIEFKEY TAKEAWAYSFAQs A University of Cambridge analysis of specifications from the UK’s six principal science examination boards … Read the full press release →
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R 25%
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